2012 Mini Cooper vs. 1992 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Mini Cooper is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,780 cc (4 cylinders), 1992 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mini Cooper (181 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 1992 Volkswagen Golf. (89 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mini Cooper should accelerate faster than 1992 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mini Cooper weights approximately 85 kg more than 1992 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2012 Mini Cooper (240 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 1992 Volkswagen Golf. (145 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2012 Mini Cooper will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1992 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Mini Cooper | 1992 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mini | Volkswagen |
| Model | Cooper | Golf |
| Year Released | 2012 | 1992 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1600 cc | 1780 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 181 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | 6-speed manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1275 kg | 1190 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3734 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1684 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1414 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2466 mm | 2480 mm |
